Rustom Masani was born in Mumbai in 1876 and distinguished himself
when he was elected as the first Indian national to become Municipal
Commissioner of Mumbai (position formerly filled by British colonial
administrators of India). Rustom Masani's career was remarkable for
versatile ability and many sided activities; for academic qualifications
and attainments, for high standing and distinctions in scholarship and
literary output, unique success in the official positions filled,
association with business and finance, pioneering efforts in several
departments of social service and welfare work, and varied activities in
several spheres of public usefulness. In recognition of his life of
service and model citizenry, Rustom Masani was knighted by the British
crown overruling India.

Rustom Masani studied at Ephinstone college in India and at London
University. In view of his stature and leadership position in business
and commerce, Rustom Masani was invited by the Iranian government to be
part of the delegation of Parsis to travel to their ancestral land of Iran
and to have an audience with Reza Shah Pahlavi. This trip took place in
1932.